That’s a definite grand slam! New names for Leeds alt-rock festival

One of the best-loved dates in the Leeds musical calendar is shaping up to be bigger and better than ever in 2017.

Don Broco, Bowling For Soup, Less Than Jake and Reel Big Fish are among the acts newly confirmed for the city’s annual Slam Dunk Festival.

This year's Slam Dunk Festival in Millennium Square.

They will join previously-announced headliners Enter Shikari at the bash, which is taking place on Sunday, May 28.

Organisers have also revealed that the alternative rock event’s main stage in Millennium Square will for the first time be complemented by a second stage making use of the standing area at the First Direct Arena.

Festival director Ben Ray said: “After 11 successful years in Leeds and two at its current home in the city centre, I’m extremely proud to say the festival is growing even more.

“The inclusion of First Direct Arena into the site is a massive step up and it gives Leeds one of the biggest inner city music festivals in the country.”

Enter Shikari.

Tony Watson, director of marketing, sales and PR at the arena, said: “The combination of a nationally recognised festival with a leading arena is a natural choice and we can’t wait to welcome Slam Dunkers into the building next year.”

More than 60 acts are still to be announced for the festival, which this year attracted around 15,000 fans.

Tickets are on sale now, visit the www.slamdunkmusic.com website for further details.

The festival has sister events in Birmingham and Hatfield, which will take place on May 27 and 29 respectively.